Civil Society Slams FG Over Fuel Duty Delay, Says Policy Favors Foreign Importers

Civil Society Slams FG Over Fuel Duty Delay, Says Policy Favors Foreign Importers

The Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NCCSO) has criticized the Federal Government’s decision to defer the implementation of the 15% import duty on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Diesel until the first quarter of 2026, describing it as a “strategic win for foreign fuel importers” and a “setback for Nigeria’s refining future.”

In a statement signed by its National Spokesperson, Comrade Mustapha Ahmed, the coalition expressed deep concern that the deferment — which was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on November 7, 2025 — undermines ongoing efforts to strengthen domestic refining capacity and achieve energy self-sufficiency.

According to NCCSO, the government’s explanation that the delay was for “technical alignment” masks a deeper issue of external pressure from international traders and their local collaborators. The group argued that the policy shift would allow importers to “flood the market” with foreign fuel products, ultimately stifling local refineries such as the Dangote Refinery and other emerging modular plants that are preparing for full operation.

“The deferment of this levy is a temporary victory for importers but a major setback for Nigeria’s refining future,” Ahmed said. “It contradicts the spirit of the Renewed Hope Agenda and discourages investors who have committed billions to Nigeria’s energy sector.”

NCCSO commended the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), led by Dr. Zacch Adedeji, for proposing the levy in the first place, noting that it was designed to promote local refining, stabilize prices, and create a level playing field for domestic producers.

The coalition urged President Tinubu to “resist external pressures” and to ensure that no further extensions of the deferment are granted beyond the first quarter of 2026. It also called on relevant agencies to monitor import activities closely during the deferment period to prevent “market distortions and anti-competitive practices.”

“The government must protect Nigeria’s refining independence and not allow international interests to dictate domestic economic policy,” the statement concluded.